These are my Mom's favorite Christmas cookie. Carolyn Hynnek used to make them for her years ago, and I ended up taking over the baking duties! I prefer them with jam or jelly, but Mom loves them with candied cherries.
Heat oven to 375°
In a large bowl, combine the first 4 ingredients.
Stir in flour and salt, blending well.
Shape into 1 inch balls, then roll in nuts.
Place 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
Press deep indentation into each cookie with thumb, or back of small spoon.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until light brown.
Place 1/2 cherry on top of each cookie, then immediately remove from cookie sheet to cool.